How to Unbrick My NetGear WNR3500

The Netgear WNR3500 router provides 802.11N access to a home network. This device requires firmware updates on occasion to provide new features, bug fixes and upgrades. If you interrupt one of these updates, the router loses all function, making it about as useful as a brick. If this happens, run the firmware recovery utility from the Netgear resource CD that came with the router, then reset the WNR3500 to factory default settings to regain your access and get the device working again.

Things You'll Need

• Paperclip

Instructions

Firmware Recovery

1. Connect your computer to your nonfunctional router using an Ethernet cable.

2. Insert the resource CD that came with your Netgear router. Click "Autorun.exe" when the AutoPlay window pops up on your screen.

3. Click "Support Software" when the main menu loads. Click "Firmware recovery utility" and then "Firmware Recovery Software."

4. Click "Firmware Recovery Utility" once again to launch the recovery wizard.

5. Allow the wizard to complete each step of the process before clicking "Next." You do not need to do anything during this process besides clicking "Next" after each step. The recovery process takes at least 20 minutes to complete. Do not disconnect your computer from your router or turn off your computer during the firmware recovery.

6. Test your router after the recovery has completed to verify its functionality. If you still can't connect, restore it to factory default settings.

Restore Factory Default Settings

1. Unbend a paperclip so that you can use it as a small poking device.

2. Press and hold the "Reset" button on the back of your router using the paperclip. The button is recessed under the surface of the back panel, which is why you can't simply press it with your finger.

3. Hold the button for a full 20 seconds before releasing it. After you release the button, the router restarts and all settings are returned to factory defaults.

4. Enter "http://192.168.1.1" in your Web browser's address bar to connect to your router. Enter "admin" as your username and "password" as your password. Both are case-sensitive and lowercase.

5. Reset your networking settings to your liking.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are still unable to use your router after trying both of the listed procedures, you may need to return or replace the router.

References

• Netgear Support: Netgear Router Firmware Recovery Utility
• Netgear Downloads: Wireless Router Setup Manual
• Netgear Support: WNR3500v1